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Official Description

Impression and custom preparation; palatal lift prosthesis

© Copyright 2025 American Medical Association. All rights reserved.

Common Language Description

A palatal lift prosthesis is a specialized dental device designed to address issues related to the soft palate, which is also known as the velum or muscular palate. This anatomical structure is situated at the back and roof of the mouth and is primarily composed of soft tissue. The soft palate plays a crucial role in various functions, including the closure of the nasal passages during swallowing, which prevents food and liquids from entering the nasal cavity, and assisting in the closure of the trachea to ensure that air is directed into the lungs during breathing. In cases where the soft palate is incompetent, meaning it does not function properly to close off the nasal passages, a palatal lift prosthesis can be utilized. This removable prosthesis is specifically designed to elevate the soft tissue of the palate, thereby enhancing the closure of the velopharyngeal area. The process begins with obtaining an impression of the upper aspect of the mouth, which is essential for creating a precise mold. Following this, a custom palatal lift prosthesis is fabricated to meet the individual needs of the patient, ultimately improving their ability to swallow and speak effectively.

© Copyright 2025 Coding Ahead. All rights reserved.

1. Indications

The palatal lift prosthesis is indicated for patients who exhibit dysfunction of the soft palate, which can lead to difficulties in swallowing and speech. The following conditions may warrant the use of this prosthesis:

  • Velopharyngeal Insufficiency - A condition where the soft palate fails to close properly against the back of the throat during speech, resulting in nasal speech and potential aspiration.
  • Neuromuscular Disorders - Conditions that affect the muscles of the soft palate, leading to inadequate closure and impaired function.
  • Cleft Palate - Patients with a history of cleft palate may require a palatal lift to assist in achieving proper velopharyngeal closure.
  • Post-Surgical Changes - Individuals who have undergone surgery in the oral or pharyngeal region may experience changes that necessitate the use of a palatal lift prosthesis.

2. Procedure

The procedure for creating a palatal lift prosthesis involves several key steps to ensure a proper fit and functionality. The following outlines the procedural steps:

  • Step 1: Patient Assessment - The initial step involves a thorough assessment of the patient's oral and pharyngeal anatomy, as well as their specific needs related to velopharyngeal function. This assessment helps determine the necessity and design of the prosthesis.
  • Step 2: Impression Taking - An impression of the upper aspect of the mouth is obtained using a suitable impression material. This step is critical as it captures the unique contours and features of the patient's oral cavity, ensuring that the prosthesis will fit comfortably and effectively.
  • Step 3: Mold Creation - Once the impression is taken, a mold is created based on the impression. This mold serves as the foundation for fabricating the custom palatal lift prosthesis, allowing for precise adjustments to be made according to the patient's anatomy.
  • Step 4: Fabrication of the Prosthesis - Using the mold, a custom palatal lift prosthesis is fabricated. This process involves selecting appropriate materials that will provide the necessary support and comfort for the patient while ensuring optimal functionality.
  • Step 5: Fitting and Adjustment - After the prosthesis is fabricated, it is fitted to the patient. Adjustments may be made to ensure that the prosthesis is comfortable and effective in elevating the soft palate to improve velopharyngeal closure.

3. Post-Procedure

Post-procedure care for patients receiving a palatal lift prosthesis includes monitoring for comfort and functionality. Patients are advised to practice using the prosthesis in various speaking and swallowing scenarios to adapt to the new device. Regular follow-up appointments may be scheduled to assess the fit and effectiveness of the prosthesis, allowing for any necessary adjustments. Additionally, patients should be educated on proper cleaning and maintenance of the prosthesis to ensure longevity and hygiene. It is important for patients to report any discomfort or issues with the prosthesis to their healthcare provider promptly.

Short Descr IMPRES&PREP PALTL LFT PROSTH
Medium Descr IMPRESSION & PREPARATION PALATAL LIFT PROSTHESIS
Long Descr Impression and custom preparation; palatal lift prosthesis
Status Code Active Code
Global Days 090 - Major Surgery
PC/TC Indicator (26, TC) 0 - Physician Service Code
Multiple Procedures (51) 2 - Standard payment adjustment rules for multiple procedures apply.
Bilateral Surgery (50) 0 - 150% payment adjustment for bilateral procedures does NOT apply.
Physician Supervisions 09 - Concept does not apply.
Assistant Surgeon (80, 82) 0 - Payment restriction for assistants at surgery applies to this procedure...
Co-Surgeons (62) 0 - Co-surgeons not permitted for this procedure.
Team Surgery (66) 0 - Team surgeons not permitted for this procedure.
Diagnostic Imaging Family 99 - Concept Does Not Apply
APC Status Indicator Hospital Part B services paid through a comprehensive APC
ASC Payment Indicator Office-based surgical procedure added to ASC list in CY 2008 or later with MPFS nonfacility PE RVUs; payment based on MPFS nonfacility PE RVUs.
Type of Service (TOS) 2 - Surgery
Berenson-Eggers TOS (BETOS) P6B - Minor procedures - musculoskeletal
MUE 1
CCS Clinical Classification 32 - Other non-OR therapeutic procedures on nose, mouth and pharynx
51 Multiple procedures: when multiple procedures, other than e/m services, physical medicine and rehabilitation services or provision of supplies (eg, vaccines), are performed at the same session by the same individual, the primary procedure or service may be reported as listed. the additional procedure(s) or service(s) may be identified by appending modifier 51 to the additional procedure or service code(s). note: this modifier should not be appended to designated "add-on" codes (see appendix d).
58 Staged or related procedure or service by the same physician or other qualified health care professional during the postoperative period: it may be necessary to indicate that the performance of a procedure or service during the postoperative period was: (a) planned or anticipated (staged); (b) more extensive than the original procedure; or (c) for therapy following a surgical procedure. this circumstance may be reported by adding modifier 58 to the staged or related procedure. note: for treatment of a problem that requires a return to the operating/procedure room (eg, unanticipated clinical condition), see modifier 78.
GA Waiver of liability statement issued as required by payer policy, individual case
Date
Action
Notes
2025-01-01 Changed Short Description changed.
2013-01-01 Changed Medium Descriptor changed.
1991-01-01 Added First appearance in code book in 1991.
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